expression, godan verb (-ru)
Literal physical stiffness in the shoulders, often from tension or poor posture.
一日中パソコンをしていたら、肩が凝ってしまった。
My shoulders got stiff after working on the computer all day.
expression, godan verb (-ru)
Idiomatic: describes a situation or atmosphere that makes one feel psychologically stiff or uncomfortable, as if one's shoulders are tensing up.
あの上司と話すと、どうも肩が凝る。
Talking with that boss always makes me feel tense.
noun-modifying (irregular)
Prenominal use (肩の凝る or 肩が凝るような) describing something serious, highbrow, or intellectually demanding, as opposed to light entertainment.
たまには肩の凝らない映画を観たい。
Sometimes I want to watch a light, undemanding movie.